Nested design schematic

The following figure shows the original design I planned. The higher resolution plots should be located within the lower resolution ones such that the spatial variability of surface temperature and moisture is covered as best as possible. The original idea was to use a total of 100 TMS-4 loggers (~27 per 1km² Plot), as indicated in the graphic. Now we’re planning with 50, so we’d have to choose two of the four plots.

Mapping some information for discussing plot locations

For identifying potential locations, I oriented myself on a potential transect that includes variation in elevation, SWIR (as an indicator for surface moisture) and Landsat and MODIS LST.

This is an interactive map for taking a look at potential locations for the 1km² plot locations derived from that transect.

And together with MODIS, SWIR and DEM rasters (layers can be switched on and off on the left hand side below + and - signs)

Selection of 2 of the 4 Plots

To capture the most gradient, it would be best to choose the plots furthest possible apart from each other while of course still keeping it well accessible for you. The camp location is fortunately very close to the proposed transect and potential 1km² plot locations.

And in terms of data reading at the end of the field campaign:

• If we sacrifice distance apart, and chose plots close to camp, e.g. 2 and 3 as locations - could they both be read out before you go back to NZ?

• Is position 1 at all reasonably reachable? It’s a nice plot because it would really make a difference in elevation to the other ones.

  • If we choose 1 and 3 e.g. for the permanent configuration - could we first implement 2 and 3 for the heli flights etc., read out the data from 2 and put them to position 4 afterwards? Probably too much of a hassle, right?

• In case a rearrangement would be too time consuming: The plot closer to camp could be the plot that is being revisited for data reading at the end of the season and containing 27 loggers and the other containing 23. Both plots could remain as they are for the winter to be read out next year and be IR-scanned via the helicopter.

• I tend to think Plot 1 and 3 would be great, or if 1 is too far off Plot 2 and 4 or 2 and 3.

Which do you think would be most feasible?

Concerning the Heli-Flight: Would the heli go multiple times or only once? Does the transect I chose coincide with the flight plan? And what footprint could be potentially cover with one transect flight?